Category: Bicycles

Besides the two wheels, bicycles have evolved to offer a varied collection of bike types that matches the wide range of riding people do. Whether you want to ride a bike to work or you want to fly down a mountain trail, there is a bicycle that is just right for the activity you have in mind. Your choice of bike should depend on your interests, needs, and the kind of distance and terrain you’ll cover. The different types of bicycles have distinct variations which are available at hubmalta.com/bike-rental-shop/. So what are the different bike types and their characteristics?

Road Bikes

As the name implies, these bikes are meant to be ridden fast on paved streets. Their identifying marks are smooth, skinny tires and dropped handlebars that curved downward. Together with a lightweight frame, road bikes are meant to eat up the miles by reaching maximum speed with minimum effort. Being lighter than other types of bicycles, a road bike can cover more ground swiftly but is uncomfortable and unstable on unpaved roads by transmitting plenty of road vibration to the rider. Its riding position of bending over at the waist may also strain your back if you are less flexible.

Mountain Bikes

If you want a bike that can get dirty and take a beating, then you may want to take a look at a mountain bike. These bikes have first-rate suspension systems and powerful brakes for navigating unforgiving mountain trails. They have wide, flat handlebars and fat, knobby tires to increase traction with the rough terrain. Mountain bikes are also popular as urban transport because of their upright riding position and more stable ride though you may be paying more for features that you don’t really need. These bikes work best when rolling over roots and rocks, and tearing up the earth.

Hybrid Bikes

In case you want the relaxed riding position of a mountain bike paired with the speediness of a road bike, then a hybrid bike is for you. You can cover great distances while in an upright position so you can enjoy the scenery or scan for traffic. The tires are normally medium-width to provide a tolerably smooth ride on-road, and enough grip and cushion off-road. Some come with suspensions while others do not so look for a bike that is equipped for the type of riding you plan to do. There are also options for luggage mounts, gear racks, lighting systems, fenders, and other accessories.

BMX Bikes

Often characterized as a children’s bike because of its small size, BMX bikes are also used by adults for tricks and stunt riding. Short for “bicycle motocross,” BMX has small wheels and frames, knobby tires, long cranks, upright handlebars with crossbars, rigid frame, one fixed gear, and very low saddles. The low seat position makes it uncomfortable for commutes except for kids who use theirs to get to school and back. The absence of gears also makes climbing hills a challenge. But for racing around obstacle courses and doing jumps and flips, you cannot go wrong with a BMX bike.

Folding Bikes

If you want to take your bike wherever you go, a folding bike can fit easily in a train, in the trunk of a car, or under your desk. The wheels, handlebars and frame can fold in seconds and be easily carried or stashed away. Obviously, it has smaller wheels than a standard bike which makes it less stable and a little trickier to handle. It is also slower and more expensive than a traditional bike with the same specifications, but it is handy if you have limited storage space at home or in the office.